MARTIN GUITAR ANNOUNCES TRADEMARK OF LEGENDARY HEADSTOCK

Nazareth, PA - June 14, 2011 - C.F. Martin & Co. (www.martinguitar.com), one of the largest producers of acoustic guitars in the world, has announced the trademark of the distinctive headstock configuration it has been using on its guitars for over 161 years. This is part of its ongoing commitment to protect its intellectual property, including the many innovations in design, manufacture and production of the finest instruments in the world.

"The clean, simple, iconic shape of the Martin guitar headstock has long been recognized by consumers as one of the primary identifying brand and design elements of our guitars," said C. F. Martin & Co. Vice President, Corporate Operations Gregory Paul. "Use of this shape by others can only be intended to create confusion in the marketplace."

Martin Guitar has been using for many years various trademarks and proprietary designs and designations in connection with the sale of its acoustic guitars, both nationwide and internationally. This intellectual property includes Martin's guitar headstock that has been used since at least 1850. The headstock configuration is now protected by U.S. Trademark Registration No. 3,048,307. Any questions regarding this trademark, other C. F. Martin & Co. intellectual property, or possible counterfeiting thereof, should be addressed to Gregory Paul, P.O. Box 329, Nazareth, PA 18064-0329.

About Martin Guitar

C.F Martin & Co. (www.martinguitar.com) has been creating the finest instruments in the world for over 175 years. It continues to innovate, introducing techniques and features that have become industry standards including X-bracing, the 14-fret guitar and the "Dreadnought" size. One of the world's leading acoustic instrument makers, Martin guitars are hand-made by skilled craftsmen and women, who use a combination of new design and techniques along with those introduced by the company founder. Founded in 1833 by Christian Frederick Martin, the privately held company has been continuously family owned and operated for six generations. Christian Frederick ("Chris") Martin IV took the helm of the company in 1986 and is its current chairman and CEO. Under his guidance, the company has introduced a number of new and innovative models that appeal to musicians, including the popular acoustic/electric Performing Artist Series, and several custom and signature Artist Editions.

Martin guitars are the instruments of choice for musicians around the world, from the icons of rock, country, folk and bluegrass to those just beginning their careers. They can be seen across all segments of pop culture, from television (Glee, Psych, Raising Hope and American Idol) to the movies; on Broadway and in books, online, and gracing the pages of popular magazines on newsstands everywhere (including in the hands of Jeff Daniels and Hugh Laurie on the covers of the last two issues of Guitar Aficionado). Connect with Martin on Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, YouTube and many other social media via www.martinguitar.com.

Media Contacts:

Matt Biscuiti The Lippin Group for Martin Guitar 212-986-7080
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